Friday, March 2, 2012

New report on chemicals law gives pointers to U.S.

The United States Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) is almost 40 years old and most people agree that it needs to be updated.

However, industry officials, lawmakers and environmental groups have different opinions as to what the new legislation should look like.

A new report from Indiana University examines the European Union’s new law on chemicals, which went into effect in 2006.

Their new chemicals law is called REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals), and the Indiana researchers say the United States can learn a lot from the European experience with REACH.

The EU law makes the industry responsible for proving the safety of the chemical, not government.

The key principle in the registration process is “no data, no market”, meaning manufacturers, producers and importers need to provide a minimum safety-related data set for many existing chemicals.

A clear definition of safety is important in any chemicals law reform, the researchers say.

The US should focus on reducing risks to human health and the environment and make it easier for industry to comply by allowing cross-Atlantic recognition of registration dossiers.

With the burden of proof of safety (or danger) resting on government, most US residents continue to be exposed to a wide variety of chemicals that may or may not be harmful to human health.

In some cases, for example bisphenol A, phthalates, formaldehyde, tetrachloroethylene and more, the danger has been identified, yet the chemicals continue to be around.

A powerful and portable air purifier with the right air filters can remove a wide range of airborne chemicals, gases, fumes and odors while also trapping particles, dust, bacteria, viruses, mold and pollen.

Many pounds of granular activated carbon are the best defense against potentially harmful chemicals, along with source control and ventilation.

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Please note:

The information presented in this blog is basic and general in nature. It should never replace the advice of a medical professional. Always consult your medical practitioner for advice on your particular health concern.